Cunningham Lake

The City of Omaha needed to improve one of its lake recreation areas. Cunningham Lake has seen a buildup of reservoir sedimentation, diminished water quality, and a degradation of fish habitat due to surrounding land developments. The city selected Olsson Associates to lead the services for the overlay and reestablishment of the endangered Cunningham Lake, which is a popular gathering point for both visitors and residents.

Olsson created a water quality overlay district specifically designed to ensure the continued preservation of Cunningham Lake and the lake's entire watershed. The overlay requires the excavation of sediment to restore water volume, enhance wetland vegetation, and establish shoreline protection structures. These efforts will counteract the negative environmental impacts the watershed has faced due to excessive development in the area.

Olsson is providing environmental and water services, concept development, and GIS mapping to provide Omaha with its first watershed protection overlay. The overlay will restore and rehabilitate Cunningham Lake, improving its overall health and safety, while also protecting those who use and enjoy it.